The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced a leadership change, appointing Dr. Lilian Nyawanda as the Acting Commissioner General following the non-renewal of Humphrey Wattanga’s contract.
The decision was communicated in a press release by the KRA Board on 8th April 2026. According to the statement, Wattanga, who has been at the helm of the authority, will proceed on terminal leave effective immediately.
The Board expressed appreciation for his leadership, noting that he played a pivotal role in implementing organizational reforms and advancing the Authority’s mandate.
"We commend Mr. Wattanga for his dedicated service to the Authority and the country. His tenure has been marked by significant strides in restructuring and modernization of KRA operations," said Ndiritu Muriithi, Board Chairman.
The Board has moved swiftly to ensure continuity in leadership, appointing Nyawanda, who currently serves as Commissioner of Customs and Border Control, as Acting Commissioner General.
Her appointment will hold until a substantive Commissioner General is recruited through a competitive process, in line with statutory and policy guidelines.
"Dr. Lilian Nyawanda has extensive experience within KRA and brings deep knowledge of customs operations, compliance, and border control. Her appointment ensures that the Authority continues to discharge its mandate effectively and efficiently," Muriithi added.
Nyawanda’s leadership at the Customs and Border Control Department has been credited with strengthening revenue collection and improving operational efficiency at border points.
Wattanga’s tenure saw the Authority implement several reforms, including restructuring operations to enhance efficiency and streamline revenue collection.
His leadership was also notable for adopting new technologies aimed at improving transparency and reducing leakages in tax administration.
The KRA Board emphasized that despite the leadership change, the Authority remains committed to its mandate of efficient revenue collection, policy compliance, and public service excellence.
The Board assured the public and stakeholders that all operations will continue without disruption.
"The Authority remains committed to discharging its mandate in the best interest of the public. We call on staff and stakeholders to support the Acting Commissioner General as she leads KRA through this transition," the statement concluded.
The recruitment process for a substantive Commissioner General is expected to follow the relevant statutory procedures, ensuring a transparent and competitive selection.
Until then, Nyawanda will oversee the Authority’s strategic initiatives, including customs modernization, tax compliance, and revenue mobilization programs critical to Kenya’s economic stability.
